Life Plan Devotion #140 [Guidelines for Giving, 3 of 3]

Hi, Everyone.
Today, we wrap up the 3 guidelines for giving, as outlined in II Corinthians 9:7. I pray this verse and these 3 devotions have blessed you.
Please remember to pray for each other, especially for those who have just had surgery, are having surgery today, and those who are having surgery soon.

Life Plan Devotion #140 [Guidelines for Giving, 3 of 3]

II Corinthians 9:7 "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (NIV).

     We have looked at two of the three guidelines for giving, as outlined in II Corinthians 9:7. We have learned that 1) the giver should prayerfully decide the amount to give and the place to give it, and that 2) godly giving takes resolve.
     Today, let's look at the third guideline for giving, 3) give cheerfully and privately, without desiring to be thanked or "showcased." II Corinthians 9:7 says that "God loves a cheerful giver." What does that mean?
     Think about a time when you cheerfully gave a gift to someone. Were you happy to give it? Absolutely. Were you prompt in giving it? Certainly. Did you choose the gift carefully, thoughtfully considering the person to whom the gift would be given? Yes. Did you give, expecting nothing in return? Hopefully so.
     Yes, God loves a "cheerful giver." The Greek word for "cheerful" is hilarŏs (hil-ar-os), and it means "merry, prompt or willing." It's where we get the word hilarious. A cheerful giver is happy to give, delights in giving. The Amplified Version says "a cheerful (joyous, 'prompt to do it') giver [whose heart is in his giving]." A cheerful giver can't help but give!

Matthew 10:8
"...Freely you have received, freely give."

What this has to do with weight loss: When I think of my own personal weight-loss journey, I feel so blessed. I have "received" much. I've received encouragement from others, advice, information, prayers, even had monetary and other needs met by my church family, friends, relatives, and even strangers. I have received freely and, I hope, gratefully and gracefully. Now, whenever, wherever, however I can, I try to give back. How about you? How can you encourage someone on their weight-loss journey today? Never think that what you have to give is too small or unimportant. If you have freely received, I encourage you to "freely give."

Confession:
I give thoughtfully, prayerfully, decisively, and joyfully.

Blessings,
Mary